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SRQ DAILY Jul 27, 2018

Friday Weekend Edition

Friday Weekend Edition

"I'm always interested in flipping the switch between distant observation of the arts and engagement, participation and seeing into the creative process."

- Lisa DiFranza, Art Ovation Hotel
 

[Arts and Culture]  Art Ovation Hotel Hosts Weekend of Art Getaways
Philip Lederer, Phil.Lederer@srqme.com

Conventional wisdom tells the seasoned traveler that perhaps the worst thing they can do is stay in the hotel for the whole trip. Art Ovation Hotel looks to turn conventional wisdom on its head with a staggering array of continually rotating activities and arts opportunities that will make even locals want to spend the weekend in a hotel room. “We’re experimenting,” says Lisa DiFranza, cultural curator for the Art Ovation Hotel. “In season, we’ll have even more surprises.”

To take full advantage of the Art Ovation weekend, sneak out the side door and leave work a wee bit early to arrive at the hotel lobby by 4pm, just in time for ukulele lessons, courtesy of a partnership with Sam Ash Music Store. Free for guests (each room does come equipped with a ukulele), locals can register with Sam Ash or contact Art Ovation for help. Though only an hour long, attendees will leave knowing a few songs and a few chords to keep practicing. And be sure to make a friend with someone staying at the hotel, as the art and wine tour begins immediately after, led by DiFranza and nominally for hotel guests only. So glom on.

After the tour, catch up with Art Ovation Artist-in-Residence Mark Gagnon, a Bradenton-based painter and sculptor, who, from 4pm to 8pm, will be working live in the lobby and answering questions from passersby. For those with a bit more time, take a stab at some of Gagnon’s mazes, including one that’s nine feet long. And beginning at 7pm, also in the lobby, enjoy the musical stylings of solo violinist Matt Dendy, as he layers compositions live for the audience. For a little fresh air, hit the rooftop for DJ and some cocktails.

Saturday starts early with Art and Yoga on the roof at 7am, where a local yoga instructor uses local art to inspire exercises for the day. Enjoy a day on the town, but come back for more from Gagnon, who will take up his post again from 4pm to 8pm, and at 5pm, another art and wine tour heads underway (yoga is also a great place to make friends). But for those who don’t make the tour, Art Ovation will be hosting a special portrait workshop at 5:30pm with local portrait artist Danica Jokic. Supplies will be provided, and each attendee leaves with a portrait of their own. And from 6p to 10pm, the lobby turns into a jazz lounge, thanks to local musician Bill Buchman, whose Art of Jazz performance series has already drawn regular fans.

Sunday means more rooftop yoga and another session with Gagnon, this time from 11am to 3pm, but also the last chance to see Legacy, an exhibition celebrating artwork from professors at Ringling College of Art and Design. Hanging all across the sizable lobby, the exhibit comes down on Monday.

For those looking to take part, but not staying at the Art Ovation, reach out to the hotel for details regarding registration. 

[SB2]  Transformative Philanthropy: Changing a Nonprofit's Culture
Jacob Ogles, jacob.ogles@srqme.com

Transformation may be the key to charting an organization’s future, but that doesn’t mean people like it. At a gathering of philanthropic leaders Thursday, keynote speaker Julie Henry opened her speech with a simple query: “How many of you love the idea of change?” The questioned inspired chuckles, but her follow-up turned that reaction toward introspection. “How many love it when you are initiating the change?” she asked. “When it’s not my idea, I’m not as happy.”

The most recent of SRQ’s SBE luncheon series, titled “Transformative Philanthropy,” tackled the difficulties of bringing organizations, many with decades of experience helping people, to grips with demands in the modern world. Henry, a facilitator and consultant with Finish Line Leadership, said even executives forcing evolution can grow wary of the process.

“Creating a culture responsive to change but also proactive to change is key,” she said. “That requires board membership, leadership and talent that is comfortable being uncomfortable.”

Henry also participated in a panel with other philanthropic voices to talk about how nonprofits need to constantly shift to serve their missions.

Christie Nolan, founder and president of Mission Matters Consulting and Coaching, says perpetual reassessment of effectiveness will be what carries organizations through needed evolution. “Any change started with an assessment of an organization,” she said. “Is the culture conducive to where we are going?” She stressed that friction may arise from such shifts, but that’s needed some times. “People think conflict is a bad thing,” she says. “It gets a bad rap.”

Betsy Delgado, vice president of Mission and Education Initiatives for Goodwill Industries of Central Indiana, agreed and reminded that board tension often comes from having a depth of varied expertise. “You don’t want everybody to believe the same thing,” she said. “When there is a conflict is when we do a lot of talking.” That’s when new ideas get explored thoroughly, she said.

Henry said the key to change sometimes may be finding the right messenger calling for it. That’s why outside consultants can sometimes serve as catalysts, because they can point out problems or potential course changes without bringing the background of history or interpersonal board relationships.

The next SB2 event, “Philanthropic Agenda,” will be held Nov. 29.  

Photo by Wyatt Kostygan: Julie Henry discusses change at a Thursday SB2 luncheon.

[Education]  SCF's Ennis Named to NATYCAA Executive Committee

Matt Ennis, athletic director for State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota (SCF)recently was named to the executive committee of the National Alliance of Two Year College Athletic Administrators (NATYCAA) at the group’s annual meeting. The NATYCAA Executive Committee comprises 20 members representing nine districts as well as two at-large members. Ennis will represent District 3, which includes Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi and Tennessee, for the 2018-19 school year. Executive committee members promote membership and serve on committees overseeing areas such as finance, the scholar-athlete program and connections. The committee also plans the organization’s national convention. The 31-year-old national alliance is the professional organization of two-year college athletics administrators. Membership is open to two-year institutions throughout the country. NATYCAA is administered by the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA). 

State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota

[Philanthropy]  United Way Suncoast Announces More Than $500,000 in Grants for Manatee County

United Way Suncoast has announced recipients of its 2018 Strategic Impact Investments for Manatee County. Volunteer members of the Community Impact Committee, chaired by Debbie Tapp, reviewed proposals in partnership with staff to select partners and initiatives. Recipients had to demonstrate alignment with the mission to break the cycle of generational poverty through a focus on education and adult financial stability in Manatee County, as well as the ability to deliver measurable impact. More than $350,000 will be awarded to partners to ensure children enter school ready to learn, that they read on grade level by the end of third grade and they achieve academic success in middle and high school, so they graduate ready for college or career. Education Partners include: Big Brothers/Big Sisters of the Suncoast; Boys and Girls Clubs of Manatee County; Early Learning Coalition of Manatee County; Palmetto Youth Center and more. In addition, nearly $170,000 will be invested to provide resources to stabilize ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) individuals and families in crisis so they can focus on long-term financial stability. 

United Way Suncoast

[Food]  Pascone's Ristorante Opens in Sarasota

Pascone’s Ristorante is now open in Sarasota. Coming from Maine to Florida, proprietor Judi Stanley brings 25 plus years of AAA 4 Diamond experience to Sarasota, alongside Chef William Sellner who helped her build their previous venture, Michelle's Fine Dining. into its Four Diamond status. Offerings include traditional authentic Italian dishes, as well as tantalizing items like Chateaubriand, a two pound Maine Lobster Thermidor, aeafood paella, Italian latkes and Stanley’s signature Chocolate Bag for dessert. A full bar, ample wine selections, a special event room and the fun dining experience of a Chef's Table add to the opportunities for the guest to select the best way to have a fun Italian dining adventure. Pascone's will be open 7 days from 4:30pm and offers Happy Hour. The restaurant is located at 5239 University Parkway. 

Pascone's Ristorante

[Dining]  Apple Spice Box Lunch Delivery & Catering Opens in Sarasota

Apple Spice Box Lunch Delivery & Catering Co., a 30-year-old, corporate-catering company based in Salt Lake City, UT, has announced the grand opening of its first-ever location in Sarasota, serving the Sarasota/Bradenton/Lakewood Ranch region. The new store is located at 1447 Tallevast Road, Its location near the Sarasota Brandenton International airport gives the store convenient access for always-on-time deliveries from Sarasota to Bradenton and east to Lakewood Ranch. Apple Spice’s box lunch service features a menu of 19 sandwiches and wraps, 15 salads, and a variety of hearty soups and chili. But the marquee item at Apple Spice is its daily baked bread, including honey wheat, 13 grain and sourdough. In addition to box lunches, Apple Spice will also offer a catering menu, featuring breakfast buffets, sandwich platters, fruit and veggie trays, build your own salad bar, baked potato bar and taco bar, and hot entrees ranging from pot roast and roasted chicken to chicken parmesan and baked ziti. 

Apple Spice Box Lunch Delivery & Catering

[Education]  State of Jobs Conference Expands to East Coast

CareerSource Suncoast and CareerSource Research Coast have partnered to provide students in Port St Lucie, Martin County and Indian River County an opportunity to attend the 2018 State of Jobs Conference exclusively for their region. CareerSource Research Coast will utilize the structure first developed by CareerSource Suncoast to roll out a conference experience for high school students to learn more about the careers they’re interested in. The 2018 State of Jobs Conference (SOJC) now includes SOJC West and SOJC East, and will both develop the same schedule with the only differences being the selection of industry tracks that focus on high-demand industries in the individual region. This year, CareerSource Research Coast have selected to offer three tracks including healthcare, manufacturing and skilled trades. SOJC East will be held at the Port St Lucie Civic Center on October 25th, 2018 and is expected to have nearly 900 students in attendance. SOJC West will be held on October 30th, 2018 at Robarts Arena in Sarasota and is expected to have nearly 1,200 high school students during the day and 300 college students in the evening. 

State of Jobs Conference



[SB2 Transformative Philanthropy ]  "Change is all about the people"

The Francis was full of empowering people, compelling discussions and local professionals eager to learn yesterday at the conclusion of SRQ MEDIA’s 2017-2018 SB2 Luncheon Symposium Series with SB2: Transformative Philanthropy. Keynote speaker, Julie Henry of Finish Line Leadership and panelists Christie Nolan of Mission Matters Consulting and Coaching and Betsy Delgado of Goodwill Industries of Central Indiana dove into an innovative discussion on the strategic alliances and groundbreaking initiatives that foster engagement and create change in the nonprofit world. Thank you to our keynote speaker, panelists, event sponsors Cool Today, Sabal Palm Bank and JFCS of the Suncoast, series sponsor Mariash Lowther Wealth Management and all who attended yesterday’s spirited event. 

Visit clicksrq.com for event photos.

[TODAY]  MUSIC: 1st Annual Sun n Fun Music Festival , July 27 – July 29

This festival will rock Sarasota's residents and RVs. Bands featured include Kiss America, a slammin' Kiss cover band, the Shane Duncan Band for country music lovers, Rush Hour, an intriguing Countdown Reloaded cover band and many more. You will not want to miss this day of music, food and fun. 

Sun n Fun RV Resort, 7125 Fruitville Rd., Sarasota.

[TODAY]  GALLERY: Nights Out - ArtCenter Manatee , July 27, 7:00pm-9:00pm

Learn to make a Stained Glass Suncatcher with artist Pamela Kramer, using the traditional copper foil techniques with lead free solder. Many colors are available and all tools will be provided to complete your masterpiece! Bring a friend and start creating! Seating is limited so register today! Tickets cost $40.00 and include supplies, wine or beer, and light snacks. 

ArtCenter Manatee , 209 9th St West, Bradenton, FL 34205

[TODAY]  PERFORMANCE: Friday Fest: Reverend Barry & the Funk, July 27 , July 27, 5:00 PM

Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is continuing their Friday Fest summertime concert series with Reverend Barry & the Funk. Bassist and lead singer Barry Nicholson only has one goal for the band: to keep the crowd dancing all night long! The group regularly performs at nightclubs, parties, and private events around Sarasota. Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, and Prince are just a few of the classic artists that audiences will hear from this dynamic group. And while you’re enjoying the music, be sure to check out Van Wezel’s selection of food trucks, drink vendors, and more! This seven-piece band--including a live horn section--will make this Friday Fest the best one yet!

Bayside Lawn of Van Wezel, 777 N. Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL 34236

[WEEKEND]  DANCE: The Summer Intensive Student Showcase , July 28, 2pm

Enjoy an awe-inducing performance by the Sarasota Cuban Ballet School's Summer Intensive participants. More than 50 promising young dancersfrom 15 U.S. states and 5 foreign countrieswill grace the stage with their mastery of ballet classics as well as contemporary works, created by SCBS' award-winning faculty.  

Sarasota Opera House, 61 N. Pineapple Ave, Sarasota, FL.

[WEEKEND]  DANCE: On Stage with the Sarasota Cuban Ballet School , July 28, 7pm

Experience a remarkable one-night-only show that includes selections from ballet classics—such as La Sylphide, Le Corsaire, and Don Quixote—as well as dramatic contemporary works performed by national and international young dancers trained in the exhilarating Cuban Ballet style. Watch special guest dancers from The Royal Ballet, The Royal Swedish Ballet, the Cuban National Ballet, and six other prestigious American ballet companies, as wel as ballet prodigy Harold Mendez in his first performance after winning the bronze medal at the 2018 USA International Ballet Competition!

Sarasota Opera House, 61 N. Pineapple Ave. Sarasota, FL.

[WEEKEND]  PERFORMANCE: Don Quixote , July 28, 4pm

“Don Quixote” is a ballet based on episodes taken from the famous novel “Don Quixote de la Mancha” by Miguel de Cervantes. Originally choreographed by Marius Petipa to the music of Ludwig Minkus and first presented by the Bolshoi Ballet in Moscow, Petipa’s choreography reflects the local Spanish culture by incorporating the dance idiom into the movements and bringing Cervantes’ gypsies and bullfighters to life. This is a perfect family comedy ballet with rich costumes and sets and a host of colorful characters.

Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 3rd Ave. West, Bradenton.

[WEEKEND]  SCIENCE AND NATURE: Kayak Trip from Caspersen Beach to Lemon Bay , July 28, 8:30am-11:30am

Enjoy quiet water, open-seated kayaking and exploration from Casperson Beach to Lemon Bay. All kayak equipment will be provided and is included in the cost of the trip, which is $20 for ALS members and $25 for non-members.

American Littoral Society

[SOON]  SCIENCE AND NATURE: Kayak Trip On Shakett Creek and Dona Bay , July 31, 8:30am-11:30am

Have a relaxing time paddling through Shakett Creek and Dona Bay, led by John Sarkozy. All kayak equipment will be provided and will be included in the cost of the trip, which is $20 for ALS members and $25 for non-members.  

American Littoral Society

[SOON]  THEATER: Other People's Money , August 1 – August 19

Fast-talking Wall Street shark Lawrence Garfinkle has his sights set on taking over the undervalued stock of New England Wire and Cable. It is up to Kate Sullivan, a determined big-city lawyer, to stop Larry from gutting the company. Loaded with conflict, comedy, and a touch of romance, Other People’s Money delves into the seedy and deceptive world of business.

Florida Studio Theatre, 1241 North Palm Ave., Sarasota

[SOON]  SEMINAR: Teen Court of Sarasota’s Volunteer Recognition Dinner , August 1, 5:30pm-8:30pm

Join Teen Court of Sarasota in celebrating their adult volunteers and community leaders with an award presentation hosted by Judge Lynn N. Silvertooth Judicial Center.Teen Court of Sarasota has awarded more than $188,000 in scholarships to dedicated volunteers since 1996. These scholarships assist recipients as they head off to college, the armed services and other endeavors. Scholarships further the mission and memories of distinguished Teen Court friends and volunteers, including Jack Byers, Dennis Wood, Katie Self and Jenna Hellman.

Judge Lynn N. Silvertooth Judicial Center, 2002 Ringling 2nd Floor Court Room 2A

[SOON]  THEATER: Wakey, Wakey , August 3 – September 2

How do we confront the uncomfortable inevitability of death? Obie-award-winning playwright Will Eno chooses to celebrate life’s lingering gifts with an uplifting mix of gratitude, absurdity and humor in a profound rumination on life and humanity.

Urbanite Theatre, 1487 2nd St., Sarasota

[SOON]  MUSIC: Brothers in Song , August 3, 7:15pm

“Brothers in Song” features longtime collaborators/composers Ralph Farris (strings, voice, percussion) and Robert Mirabal (Native American flutes, voice, percussion) performing music from various indigenous traditions and works in progress. The evening will begin with a collaboration with fellow Hermitage artist, poet Aimee Nezhukumatathil, and will close with a sunset meditation. Guests are encouraged to bring beach chairs, snacks, and refreshments. Reservations are strongly encouraged. 

The Hermitage, 6660 Manasota Key Road, Englewood, FL.

[SOON]  THEATER: The Turn of the Screw , August 7 – August 26

1840: an era charmed by superstition, madness, and the writings of Sigmund Freud led Henry James to write one of the most chilling ghost stories of all time. A young governess arrives at a seemingly idyllic country house to look after two orphaned children. But shortly after her arrival, she realizes they are not alone. She risks everything to keep the children safe, until she begins to question her sanity, and the children’s innocence.

Asolo Repertory Theatre, 5555 North Tamiami Trl., Sarasota

[SOON]  THEATER: On Golden Pond , August 8 – August 19

This 1979 play by Ernest Thompson focuses on aging couple Ethel and Norman Thayer, who spend each summer at their home on a lake called Golden Pond. The play explores the often turbulent relationship between a daughter and her father growing up, and the difficulties faced by a couple in the twilight years of a long marriage. It is the winner of numerous Tony and Drama Desk Awards.

Players Centre for Performing Arts, 838 North Tamiami Tr., Sarasota.

[SOON]  BUSINESS: YP Summit: "Thrive" , August 10, 8am-12pm

The third annual Young Professionals summit is a half day conference geared toward helping local young professionals develop personally and professionally as leaders in the community. The summit will feature keynote speaker Trey Lauderdale, founder and CEO of Voalte, speaking on the work/life balance. In addition to the keynote presentation, attendees will select breakout sessions from two tracks: personal development and professional development. 

The Westin Sarasota, 100 Marina View Drive, Sarasota, FL 34236

[SOON]  GALLERY: VOLUMES , August 12 – October 9

This summer light and sound come into play with a special installation by the artist Ezra Masch. VOLUMES harnesses the speed of light to reveal the volume of sound and space. This immersive audio and visual installation will feature a 3-d grid of LED lights that will fill the interior of the Ringling’s Monda Gallery.

John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Rd., Sarasota

SRQ Media Group

SRQ DAILY is produced by SRQ | The Magazine. Note: The views and opinions expressed in the Saturday Perspectives Edition and in the Letters department of SRQ DAILY are those of the author(s) and do not imply endorsement by SRQ Media. Senior Editor Jacob Ogles edits the Saturday Perspective Edition, Letters and Guest Contributor columns.In the CocoTele department, SRQ DAILY is providing excerpts from news releases as a public service. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by SRQ DAILY. The views expressed by individuals are their own and their appearance in this section does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. For rates on SRQ DAILY banner advertising and sponsored content opportunities, please contact Ashley Ryan Cannon at 941-365-7702 x211 or via email

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